My Commercial Roof is Leaking: What Should I Do? 

No one wants to deal with a leaking roof, especially during a storm. But that’s often when you first notice it. One minute, everything in your building seems fine. The next, you see water dripping from the ceiling, puddling on the floor, or damaging important equipment and inventory. A roof leak can disrupt your business and cost you money if you don’t act fast. 

At Weather Shield Roofing Systems™, we’ve helped businesses handle emergency roof leaks for over 40 years. The good news? If you take the right steps quickly, you can reduce damage, save money, and prevent bigger problems in the future. 

Here’s exactly what to do when your commercial roof starts leaking. 

How to Identify a Commercial Roof Leak 

Even if you don’t see water dripping, your roof could still have a leak. Here are some early warning signs to watch for: 

Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls 

Look for brown, yellow, or discolored spots on your ceiling or walls. These stains usually mean water is seeping in from above. If you notice stains near walls, the moisture could also be inside the wall itself, which may lead to hidden damage. 

Musty Odors or Mold Growth 

Do you notice a damp or musty smell inside your building? That could mean water is trapped somewhere. Mold and mildew can grow quickly in moist areas, causing health problems for employees and customers. If you see mold, act fast to stop the leak and remove the affected material. 

Active Water Entry (Dripping or Puddles) 

The most obvious sign of a roof leak is water actively coming into your building. Whether it’s a slow drip, a steady stream, or a puddle forming on the floor, any water entry should be addressed immediately. Ignoring it can lead to serious damage. 

What to Do When Your Commercial Roof Starts Leaking 

If you discover a leak, follow these steps to protect your business: 

Protect People, Equipment & Inventory 

Move important equipment, products, and supplies away from the leak as soon as possible. If you can’t move certain items, cover them with waterproof tarps or plastic sheeting to prevent water damage. 

Contain the Water 

Place buckets, containers, or towels under the leak to catch dripping water. This helps prevent slip hazards and keeps water from spreading. If water is pooling, use a mop or a wet vacuum to clean it up quickly. 

Mark the Leak Location 

Once the leak is contained, mark the exact spot where the water is coming in. Use tape, a sticky note, or a marker to make it easy to find later. Once the area dries, locating the source of the leak becomes much harder. 

Inspect for Additional Leaks 

Leaks often don’t happen in just one spot. Walk through your building and check ceilings, walls, and floors for other signs of moisture or damage. Catching leaks early can prevent more serious structural issues. 

Call a Commercial Roofing Professional 

After you’ve contained the immediate issue, it’s time to bring in the experts. A professional roofer can assess the damage, find the source of the leak, and recommend repairs. Don’t wait—acting quickly can save you from expensive repairs later. 

Additional Steps to Protect Your Business 

Contact Your Insurance Provider 

If the leak has caused damage to your building, check your insurance policy to see if you’re covered. Many commercial insurance policies include protection for water-related damage. Contact your insurance provider to start a claim if necessary. 

Check Your Roofing Warranty 

Your roof may still be under warranty. Reach out to your roofing manufacturer or contractor to find out if repairs are covered. This could save you money on fixing the leak. 

Schedule Regular Roof Inspections 

The best way to prevent leaks is through regular maintenance. Schedule roof inspections at least twice a year to catch small issues before they become big problems. A professional roofer can check for signs of wear and tear, clogged drains, and other risks that could lead to leaks. 

Improve Drainage Systems 

One common cause of roof leaks is poor drainage. Make sure your gutters, downspouts, and roof drains are clear of debris so water can flow off the roof properly. Standing water increases the risk of leaks and structural damage. 

Develop a Roof Maintenance Plan 

Work with a roofing professional to create a maintenance plan for your building. Regular inspections, small repairs, and proper drainage can extend the life of your roof and help prevent future leaks. 

Key Takeaways

A commercial roof leak is a serious issue, but taking fast action can help minimize damage. Protect your people, equipment, and inventory, then call a professional roofer to address the problem. By staying proactive with regular maintenance and inspections, you can keep your building safe and dry for years to come. 

If you need expert roofing help, contact Weather Shield Roofing Systems™ today. Our team is ready to assist with emergency repairs and long-term roofing solutions! 

Brandon Pasco

Account Executive

Brandon Pasco is a seasoned professional in the roofing industry, having started his career in 2019 in commercial roofing distribution across Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio, and West Virginia. After relocating back to his home state of Michigan to start a family, Brandon joined the Weather Shield Roofing Systems team, where he continues to focus on helping clients extend the life of their roofs while minimizing costs.